Lavender, with its delicate purple flowers and intoxicating aroma, is a popular choice for gardens and landscapes. Besides adding beauty and fragrance to your space, lavender also offers numerous benefits such as attracting pollinators and repelling pests. However, selecting the right plants to companion with lavender is crucial to maximize its potential. By combining complimentary species, you can create an aesthetically pleasing and harmonious garden. In this informative introduction, we will explore the factors to consider while choosing what to plant near lavender, helping you create a thriving and cohesive landscape that showcases the true beauty of this herbaceous plant.
key Takeaways
- Lavender thrives when planted alongside other plants that have similar sun and soil requirements.
- Companion plants like rosemary, thyme, and sage can benefit lavender by deterring pests and enhancing its fragrance.
- Marigolds and nasturtiums can help attract beneficial insects that can protect lavender from harmful pests.
- Plants with tall growth like sunflowers and ornamental grasses can provide shade and wind protection to lavender plants.
- Avoid planting lavender near plants that need frequent watering to prevent root rot.
- Herbs like basil and oregano can be planted near lavender as they can thrive in similar growing conditions.
- Consider planting lavender near perennial flowers like echinacea and salvia for a visually appealing garden.
- Plants with strong scents like mint or lemon balm may compete with lavender’s fragrance and should be planted further away.
- Interplanting lavender with pollinator-friendly plants like bee balm and coneflowers can attract beneficial insects and enhance biodiversity.
- When selecting companion plants for lavender, consider their growth habits, water requirements, and compatibility with lavender’s fragrance.
What Are the Best Plants to Grow Near Lavender?
Choosing the right plants to grow near lavender is essential for creating a beautiful and thriving garden. The right companions can help deter pests, attract beneficial insects, and enhance the overall health and appearance of your lavender plants. Here are some of the best plants to consider when deciding what to plant near lavender:
1. Rosemary
Rosemary is not only a flavorful herb but also a great companion plant for lavender. Both plants have similar needs, including well-draining soil and full sun exposure. By planting rosemary near lavender, you can create a visually pleasing and aromatic combination. Additionally, rosemary can help repel pests such as flies and mosquitoes.
2. Thyme
Thyme is another herb that pairs well with lavender. It has similar growing requirements and complements lavender both visually and aromatically. Thyme attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, which also benefit lavender plants. Furthermore, thyme can provide ground cover, helping to suppress weeds around your lavender.
3. Marigolds
Marigolds are colorful flowers that not only add beauty to your garden but also offer several benefits to lavender. Their strong scent can help repel pests, such as aphids and mosquitoes, from attacking your lavender. Marigolds also attract bees and other pollinators, which are crucial for lavender’s pollination. Planting marigolds near lavender can enhance the overall health and productivity of your lavender plants.
4. Sage
Sage is a drought-tolerant herb that pairs well with lavender due to their similar water and sunlight requirements. Sage can provide a beautiful contrast with its gray-green foliage against the vibrant purple blooms of lavender. This combination can create a visually stunning garden while also attracting beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.
5. Catmint
Catmint, also known as Nepeta, is a perennial herb that is part of the mint family. It has small lavender-like flowers and a pleasant fragrance. Catmint attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it a great companion for lavender plants. It is also a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in similar growing conditions as lavender, making it an excellent choice for nearby planting.
6. Yarrow
Yarrow is a hardy perennial that presents clusters of colorful flowers. This plant attracts beneficial insects and pollinators, which can help your lavender plants thrive. Yarrow can also aid in soil health by accumulating nutrients and promoting better drainage. Its feathery foliage and vibrant flowers make it a visually appealing choice for planting near lavender.
7. Oregano
Oregano is an aromatic culinary herb that pairs well with lavender in both garden aesthetics and plant health. Oregano’s vibrant green foliage and small flowers complement the appearance of lavender. Additionally, oregano can help deter pests and attracts beneficial insects like bees and parasitic wasps. It is a sun-loving herb that thrives in well-drained soil, making it a suitable companion for lavender.
By carefully selecting the right plants to grow near lavender, you can create a harmonious garden that benefits both the lavender plants and the surrounding flora and fauna. Remember to consider the growing requirements and complementary characteristics of each plant when making your selections. Enjoy the beauty and benefits of a well-planned lavender garden!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I plant lavender near other herbs?
Yes, lavender can be planted near other herbs. In fact, planting lavender near herbs like rosemary, thyme, sage, and mint can benefit both plants. Lavender’s aromatic oils can deter pests that may harm these herbs, while the herbs can also enhance the scent of the lavender. Just make sure to provide enough spacing between the plants to allow for proper airflow and prevent overcrowding.
2. Are there any flowers that complement lavender?
Definitely! There are several flowers that pair well with lavender. Some popular choices include roses, daisies, echinacea, and peonies. These flowers not only create a stunning visual display with their vibrant colors and different heights, but they also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which can help your lavender plants thrive.
3. What vegetables can I plant near lavender?
When it comes to vegetables, planting lavender near crops like tomatoes, cabbage, carrots, and onions can be beneficial. Lavender’s aromatic scent can help mask the scent of these vegetables, which may attract pests. Additionally, lavender’s natural insect-repelling properties can help deter pests that may harm these crops.
4. Can I plant lavender near fruit trees?
Absolutely! Lavender can be planted near fruit trees, such as apple, peach, and cherry trees. The strong fragrance of lavender can help repel pests that tend to target fruit trees. Additionally, lavender’s tall spikes can provide some shade to the base of the fruit trees, helping to keep the soil cool and retain moisture.
5. What are some plants I should avoid planting near lavender?
While lavender is a versatile and compatible plant, there are a few plants that you should avoid planting near it. Avoid planting lavender near plants that have high water requirements, as lavender prefers well-draining soil and can be sensitive to overwatering. Also, steer clear of plants that produce excessive shade, as lavender thrives in full sun. Examples of plants to avoid planting near lavender include ferns, hostas, and certain varieties of ivy.
Types of Soil for Various Flowering Plants
1. Roses: The Soil Foundation for Beautiful Blooms
For roses to grow and bloom their best, they require well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Opt for a loamy soil, which is a mixture of sand, silt, and clay. This combination allows for proper water drainage while retaining enough moisture for the rose plants to thrive. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting to improve its structure and fertility.
2. Sunflowers: Thriving in Rich and Fertile Soil
Sunflowers are known for their tall stature and vibrant blooms. To achieve the best results, plant sunflowers in fertile soil that has been amended with organic matter like compost or aged manure. The soil should be well-draining to prevent waterlogging, but also capable of retaining enough moisture to support the sunflowers’ growth. A slightly acidic to neutral pH level will also benefit sunflowers.
Final Thoughts
Lavender is a versatile and beautiful plant that can thrive when planted near other herbs, flowers, vegetables, and even fruit trees. It not only adds a lovely fragrance to your garden but also provides numerous benefits for the surrounding plants and ecosystem. By carefully selecting the right companions for your lavender plants, you can create a harmonious and thriving garden that is both visually appealing and beneficial for your plants.
Remember to provide proper spacing between plants, consider their water and sunlight requirements, and avoid planting lavender near plants that may compete for resources or produce excessive shade. With this information in mind, you can confidently plan and design your garden to include a variety of plants that complement and enhance the beauty of your lavender. Happy gardening!